our mission

What is CARD? CARD stands for the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities. Our center, based at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University, is one of seven state-funded, university-based outreach and support centers in Florida dedicated to optimizing the potential of people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), dual sensory impairment, sensory impairments with other disabling conditions, and related disabilities. In addition to ASD, CARD also serves a variety of related disabilities including deaf-blindness, sensory impairments with other disabling conditions, developmental delays in children under 5 who also present with autistic-like behaviors, and genetic disorders that may co-exist with autism symptoms (e.g., Fragile X Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, Tuberous Sclerosis, Angelman Syndrome, among others). Over the years, CARD’s constituency has grown from 88 families in 1993 to over 9,000 families today in Monroe, Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

CARD services are designed to build on the capacities of state and local resources, not to duplicate or replace them. CARD provides families with resources specific to their needs. Some of the services that CARD provides include:

• Individualized Client and Family Support • Family and Professional Training • Public Education and Awareness and Community Outreach • Programmatic Consultation and Technical Assistance

University of Miami - Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD) is a state-funded resource and support program dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism and related disabilities. As a policy, UM-NSU CARD does not endorse specific programs, providers, or approaches.

1 in 68 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and this rate has been increasing. The University of Miami Psychology Department is a world leader in autism research and support, marshalling the forces of scientists and clinicians to develop the latest knowledge about autism and implement cutting edge programming to support children and adults with autism and related disabilities as well as the professionals who serve them. More than 10,000 South Florida families receive support from our clinics and resource centers every year. Join us and learn more. For more information please click here.

The University of Miami Autism Programs (UMAP) are an interdisciplinary collaboration of world-renowned experts in integrated, family-centered care, providing leading-edge research and clinical services available to all South Florida families. Specialists are available to address every aspect of autism spectrum disorders, from diagnosis and treatment to research and public policy. For appointments and more information call 305.243.6831.

What is AUTISM YOU + I? Autism You + I represents the image we at CARD have embraced as an organization since our inception in 1993. Our mission is all about "You + I" and what we as families, friends and community partners can accomplish together to make our community a better, more inclusive place for people affected by autism and related disabilities. Together, You + I are making a difference every day in the lives of so many.